Moroccan fisheries have received the official green light from U.S. authorities, clearing the way for continued seafood exports to the American market. The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has formally recognized that Morocco’s fishing operations meet all environmental standards currently enforced in the United States. The announcement was made Friday by Morocco’s Secretariat of Maritime Fisheries.
This certification, which will remain in effect from January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2029, authorizes Morocco to keep exporting seafood products to the U.S., unless NOAA decides otherwise during that timeframe.
The approval follows a detailed compliance review submitted by Moroccan officials. After evaluating the documentation, NOAA confirmed that every Moroccan fishery listed in the Foreign Fisheries List meets the requirements outlined in the U.S. Marine Mammal Protection Act—a key piece of legislation aimed at safeguarding marine mammal populations from commercial fishing impacts.
The U.S. endorsement represents a major milestone for Morocco’s fishing industry. Not only does it solidify access to one of the world’s most tightly regulated markets, but it also boosts the international competitiveness of Moroccan seafood. Beyond the trade implications, this recognition is seen as validation of Morocco’s ongoing efforts to manage its marine resources responsibly and sustainably.
According to authorities, this decision underscores the strength of public policies Morocco has implemented in recent years—particularly those focused on balancing economic exploitation of marine life with the need to protect fragile ecosystems.
Maintaining this momentum is central to Morocco’s broader strategy for developing its fisheries sector. The national plan seeks to increase the value of seafood products, expand their reach in global markets, and ensure that growth in the industry aligns with long-term environmental sustainability.
